Introduction
Tomistoma schlegelii, commonly known as false gharial, is a fresh water reptile.
Who is it?
Morphology
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Size400 - 500 cm
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Motifdiagonal stripes
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Size400 - 500 cm
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Motifdiagonal stripes
How to recognize This reptile ?
The false gharial measures between 400 and 500 cm. This reptile is bicolore with a predominantly noir and marron body. The also has noir diagonal stripes.
Behaviour & Life cycle
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Sociabilitysolitary
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Way of livingdiurnal
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VenomousNo
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Dietpredator
The false gharial is a reptile solitary naturally found Terre. This species is carnivorous .
The false gharial is a territorial animal that does not tolerate any incursions into its living area. It is particularly virulent against other territorial species and it can provoke heated fights. Relationships between conspecifics are also hectic, with each seeking to secure its place. In a constant quest for dominance, the dominant males of this species cannot stand each other. The battle between two individuals can be intense and violent. It will result in the submission and sometimes even death of one of the protagonists.
Reproduction
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Reproductionovipare
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Clutch size0 - 0 eggs
The false gharial is a reptile ovipare. This reptile protects its eggs from nearby predators.
Life-threatening species
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VenomousNo
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BiteYes
This species can attack if it feels threatened. It is important to be particularly vigilant especially during dives or fishing sessions. In the most serious cases, it can cause death.
Origin and distribution
Conservation and international regulations
What is its habitat?
Natural environment characteristics
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Temperature22 - 28 °C
Biotope presentation
The acidification of water comes from the decomposition of plants. This phenomenon changes the color of the water, which tends to turn brown. In some areas particularly rich in organic matter, the water is so dark that it is called "black water".
The false gharial is most often found at a depth between 0m and 1m. However, it is not impossible to find this species at other depths. This animal evolves in areas characterized by a strong presence of vegetation (aquatic and marsh plants, decaying organic matter, roots...).
The soil is generally composed of peat.
To go further
Sources & Contributions
Participation & Validation
The Fishipedia team and specialist contributors are committed to providing high-quality content. However, although the information comes from scientific sources or testimonials from specialists, the cards may contain inaccuracies.
Benoit Chartrer
Translation
Translation done with the valuable contribution of our translators, who make this information available to a wider audience. We sincerely thank them for their commitment.
Scientific partners
Tags
Species of the same family
